This August, college consultant Allison set off on her first backpacking trip in 30 years with Shoestring Adventures. The biggest challenge she overcame was believing that she could complete the trip amongst people so much younger than herself in high altitudes. Over three days and 21-miles through the Yosemite backcountry, Allison discovered the strength within herself and succeeded!

Learn more about Allison in our interview below, including her advice for other women who want to go backpacking for the first time!

Shoestring Warrior: Allison

Hometown:

Studio City

Current Location:

Sherman Oaks

Profession:

College Consultant

What are your passions outside of work?

How would you describe your level of backpacking experience?

Beginner

Tell us about yourself!

Happily, I am a free empty-nester launching a new business. I enjoy being outdoors a ton, being with other people, and living in a place of gratitude. My greatest desire is to visit the most amazing waterfalls in the world.

Photo by Justin Sullivan

What inspired you to go backpacking for the first time in 30 years with Shoestring Adventures?

The joy of being outside and getting away to see the spectacular beauty awaiting in our wonderful National Parks.

Tell us about a challenge you overcame during the trip.

The biggest challenge I overcame was really within myself believing that I could actually complete the trip amongst people so much younger than myself in high altitudes.

What is your favorite memory from the trip?

Sharing the silence with Alyx at the back of the group and by going slowly having the opportunity to witness a magical moment of seeing a solo deer in the meadow. We were the only ones to see it and it was glorious and humbling. And, I loved sitting around the campfire with other people I had never met before and laughing with all of them breaking bread (so to speak).

Photo by Justin Sullivan

Do you have advice for other women who want to go backpacking for the first time?

Learn as much as you can about backpacking before going, ask lots of questions, and prepare by going hiking or walking uphill with a loaded backpack. It does give you a sense of the weight you need to carry when you are in the group. It really helps to be as informed as possible.

What piece of gear did you find to be the most helpful?

My camelbak. It was so wonderful to not have to take out a plastic water bottle. It was super convenient. I also liked being able to use the cold water from the lake to put in it which may not always be available if I backpack in areas away from water. And, of course, never underestimate the importance of a comfortable sleeping bag.

Where to next?

I am interested in going to other beautiful locations where there is lush greenery and beautiful water sources throughout the United States and Canada and not everyone can get to so that I have some sense of remoteness.

Photo by Justin Sullivan

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Shoestring Adventures offers guided weekend camping & backpacking adventures and a supportive community for anyone who wants to experience the outdoors.

Founder Alyx Schwarz started Shoestring Adventures in 2011 following back surgery, the end of a year long struggle with chronic pain. A former triathlete and marathon runner, she rediscovered her love of the outdoors through hiking. Since then, she has devoted the weekends to exploring her home state of California and invites you to come along!